Name of the Condition

• Laceration of the Plantar Artery of Unspecified Foot

Summary

• A laceration of the plantar artery involves a cut or tear in the artery located on the sole of the foot, which is responsible for supplying blood to that area. This can result from trauma or injury.

Causes

• The primary cause of a plantar artery laceration is a penetrating injury to the foot, such as stepping on a sharp object, a knife wound, or a severe crush injury.

Risk Factors

• Risk factors include engaging in activities where foot injuries are likely, such as working in construction, woodworking, or barefoot outdoor activities, and not wearing protective footwear.

Symptoms

• Patients may experience severe bleeding, pain, swelling, reduced blood flow, and bruising in the affected foot. There may also be numbness or tingling due to nerve involvement.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, the patient’s report of injury, and imaging tests like an ultrasound or angiography to assess blood flow in the artery.

Treatment Options

• Treatment usually involves surgical repair of the artery to restore blood flow, control bleeding, and prevent complications. Additional care may include wound cleaning, suturing, and antibiotics to prevent infection.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With prompt and appropriate treatment, the prognosis is generally good. However, follow-up is crucial to monitor the healing process and ensure no circulatory complications.

Complications

• Potential complications include persistent bleeding, infection, impaired blood circulation, gangrene, or tissue death if untreated.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Wearing protective shoes, avoiding hazardous areas, and using caution during activities likely to result in foot injuries can help prevent lacerations.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Immediate medical attention is necessary if there is severe bleeding, significant pain, weakness in the foot, or signs of infection like redness and fever.

Additional Resources

• The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) and the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) offer resources and support for foot-related injuries.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure to use the correct code, S95.119A, indicating an initial encounter for an unspecified foot’s plantar artery laceration.
• Be careful not to confuse this with lacerations involving other parts of the foot or different types of vascular injuries.